N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate stands out as a key ionic liquid, shaping many laboratory processes and industrial projects. The compound forms from a straightforward synthesis between N-butylpyridine and sulfuric acid, leading to a salt that displays impressive physical and chemical characteristics. It delivers a unique blend of organic and inorganic traits, making it valuable across a spectrum of chemistry tasks, especially in systems demanding thermal stability, ionic conductivity, and strong solvation power. Laboratories that need a reliable, low-volatility, and tunable compound often reach for N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate to drive results.
This compound carries a clear structure: a pyridinium ring substituted at the nitrogen with a butyl chain, coupled with a hydrogen sulfate anion. Its molecular formula, C9H15NO4S, speaks to a careful balance of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen atoms. The design introduces hydrophilicity from the sulfate, while the butyl group brings some hydrophobicity, a feature that determines solubility and reactivity. These characteristics are not just numbers; each influences how the compound enters reactions, interacts with solvents, and partners with other chemicals.
N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate appears in several forms, including fluffy crystals, dense powder, pearls, or as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid, depending on temperature and purity. Most suppliers provide the compound as a solid or viscous liquid to keep handling and measurement consistent. In the lab, its density generally hovers near 1.25 to 1.31 g/cm³ at ambient temperature. Such density makes it heavier than water, useful in separation processes and density-based applications. As a raw chemical, it dissolves in polar solvents and shows stable behavior even when exposed to moderate heat, which gives users wide flexibility in designing processes that avoid harsh or volatile reagents.
In the chemical trade, purity and specification are non-negotiable. Most N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate on the market exceeds 97% purity, with trace water and organic impurities tightly controlled. Buyers and regulators look for a clear product identification, including the HS Code, commonly 2934999090 for organic compounds not otherwise specified in customs trade. This code ensures streamlined logistics and standardized reporting, a must for firms routing chemicals across different jurisdictions or through customs with strict compliance expectations.
From a chemist’s point of view, N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate offers several standout properties. It conducts ions well, resists decomposition up to 200°C, and avoids dangerous vapor emissions under standard lab conditions. This property list means it can serve as a solvent, catalyst, or medium for extraction in both small-scale experimental and pilot-scale industrial settings. With proper ventilation, spills rarely carry the danger you might expect from more volatile acids or bases, though skin and eye contact should be avoided and direct inhalation is never recommended. Storing the compound in sealed containers away from strong oxidizers or reducers gives years of reliable shelf life, which matters to anyone budgeting for infrequently needed reagents.
Every chemical brings its risks, and N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate requires respect. Even as it lacks flammable vapors, accidental exposure causes irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tissue. Wearing gloves, protection for the face, and using a chemical fume hood are standard safety measures. In my own lab experience, even a small spill during transfer underlined how easily droplets linger on surfaces, so keeping dedicated spill kits and clear labeling at storage locations eliminates confusion. Disposal calls for neutralization and professional chemical waste treatment; pouring residues down the drain invites both regulatory and safety issues.
Manufacturers see N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate as a strong candidate for raw material in synthesizing functional ionic liquids, catalysts, or extraction aids. It works well in processes designed for greener chemistry, cutting down on traditional volatile organic solvents. Electrochemistry, organic synthesis, extraction of metals, and phase-transfer catalysis all see efficiency improvements with the compound’s use. The unique pairing of butyl and pyridinium groups lets researchers fine-tune performance in developing new electrolytes, lubricants, or even anti-static coatings, each product customized by adjusting temperature, concentration, or co-solvents.
Growing focus on safer, more sustainable chemicals makes N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate a go-to for teams developing alternatives to hazardous solvents and reagents. Its non-volatility and low-toxicity profile win points in sectors aiming to reduce emissions, protect workers, and streamline regulatory approval. The challenge comes in large-scale adoption; raw material sourcing, purification, and transportation must all comply with international safety laws and environmental guidelines. Investing in better purification and recycling technology could lower waste and cost, pushing this ionic liquid into more mainstream industrial use, from energy storage to large-batch pharmaceuticals.
N-Butylpyridinium hydrogen sulfate represents more than a formula. It pulls together safety, innovation, and versatility to answer some of chemistry’s trickier problems. From its unique density and solubility profile to strong performance in demanding processes, this compound offers practical value not just for scientists behind the bench, but for firms building the next generation of safer, greener chemicals.
